Deviation-Based Cost Modeling: A Novel Model to Evaluate the Clinical and Economic Impact of Clinical Pathways

BACKGROUND: Although clinical pathways were developed to streamline patient care cost efficiently, few have been put to rigorous financial test. This is important today, because payors demand clear solutions to the cost-quality puzzle. We describe a novel, objective, and versatile model that can evaluate and link the clinical and economic impacts of clinical pathways. STUDY DESIGN: Outcomes for 209 consecutive patients undergoing high-acuity...